Philippians 2 29

Philippians 2:29 kjv

Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation:

Philippians 2:29 nkjv

Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness, and hold such men in esteem;

Philippians 2:29 niv

So then, welcome him in the Lord with great joy, and honor people like him,

Philippians 2:29 esv

So receive him in the Lord with all joy, and honor such men,

Philippians 2:29 nlt

Welcome him in the Lord's love and with great joy, and give him the honor that people like him deserve.

Philippians 2 verses

Philippians 2 29 Meaning

The verse commands the Philippian church to warmly welcome Epaphroditus, and other similar dedicated servants, with spiritual joy because of their service in the Lord, holding them in high regard and honor. It is an instruction to recognize and celebrate faithful commitment to Christ and His gospel, especially when it involves personal sacrifice.

Philippians 2 29 Context

This verse is part of Paul’s commendation of Epaphroditus to the Philippian church. Paul sent Epaphroditus back to Philippi with this letter, as Epaphroditus had fallen ill, "nearing death for the work of Christ" (Phil 2:30), while ministering to Paul and delivering the Philippians' gift. Paul uses Epaphroditus as a living illustration of the self-sacrificial mindset he exhorted earlier in the chapter (Phil 2:1-11), where Christ is the ultimate example of humility and service. The chapter emphasizes a unified church life, humble service to others, and the valuing of those who put Christ's interests before their own. Epaphroditus embodies the ideal of Christ-like service, having "risked his life" for the Gospel, and therefore, the church is commanded to honor him.

Philippians 2 29 Word analysis

• Receive (προσδέχομαι - prosdechomai): This Greek term means to welcome, to take to oneself, or to accept with a favorable and eager mind. It implies an active and gracious reception, not merely passive acknowledgment. Paul previously used it for receiving a gift (Phil 4:18), here for receiving a person, emphasizing a warm and appreciative welcome.
• him therefore: "Him" (αὐτόν - auton) refers specifically to Epaphroditus, whose faithful service and near-death experience for the Lord's work are detailed in the preceding verses. The conjunction "therefore" (οὖν - oun) signals a logical consequence; because of his exemplary service, Epaphroditus merits this special reception.
• in the Lord (ἐν Κυρίῳ - en Kyrio): This significant Pauline phrase defines the sphere and nature of the reception. It is not a secular or merely social welcome, but one given out of common faith in Christ. It means "as fellow believers, united in Christ," acknowledging his spiritual standing and work as belonging to the Lord. It sets the foundation for true Christian fellowship and honor.
• with all gladness (μετὰ πάσης χαρᾶς - meta pasēs charas): "Gladness" (χαρᾶς - charas) denotes profound joy, happiness, or spiritual rejoicing. The addition of "all" (πάσης - pasēs) emphasizes the wholehearted, unreserved, and fervent nature of this joy. Their welcome should be enthusiastic and full of cheer, reflective of their shared faith and appreciation for his service.
• and hold (καὶ ἔχετε - kai echete): "Hold" (echete) is an imperative, a direct command to the church. It implies maintaining or possessing. Here, in combination with "in honor," it means to hold in high esteem, to have a continuing attitude of reverence and appreciation.
• such (τοιούτους - toioutous): This is a crucial plural pronoun. While the immediate command concerns Epaphroditus, "such" broadens the application. It extends the principle to all individuals who exhibit the same spirit of sacrificial service, devotion, and courage for the sake of Christ and the Gospel.
• in honor (ἐν τιμῇ - en timē): "Honor" (timē) means to value, respect, esteem, or give dignity to. It indicates a recognition of their worth, their sacrifices, and their vital contribution to the church and the Gospel. It’s an instruction to give them the respect and recognition they deserve for their faithfulness.

Philippians 2 29 Bonus section

The instruction to "hold such in honor" goes beyond mere commendation of Epaphroditus; it functions as a corrective measure against the human tendency to dismiss or underappreciate those whose service involves suffering or a perceived lack of worldly success. In cultures that might have prioritized worldly power, eloquence, or material status, Paul explicitly directs the Philippians to instead esteem sacrificial faithfulness and spiritual dedication. This principle provides a powerful counter-cultural directive for the church in every age. It underscores the profound theological truth that Christ himself emptied himself and suffered for our salvation; thus, those who emulate this posture of self-giving, even to the point of risking life, should be held in the highest esteem within the community of believers. This communal act of honor serves not only to validate the suffering servant but also to catechize the church on what truly matters in God's economy.

Philippians 2 29 Commentary

Philippians 2:29 transcends a mere instruction for receiving an individual; it establishes a core principle for Christian community and discipleship. Paul directs the Philippians not just to greet Epaphroditus, but to receive him in the Lord with profound, spiritual gladness. This reception is rooted in their shared identity in Christ and fueled by a recognition of his self-sacrificing ministry, echoing the humility and service exemplified by Christ Himself in the earlier part of the chapter. Epaphroditus, having risked his life for the work of Christ (Phil 2:30), represents a spiritual ideal. The command to "hold such in honor" is crucial; it elevates selfless Gospel work as a prime characteristic to be valued within the church. This honor is not worldly applause but a spiritual esteem, reflecting God’s own valuing of faithful service. It counteracts any tendency to undervalue those who pour themselves out for the body of Christ, often unseen or amidst suffering. Practically, it encourages churches to foster an environment where spiritual laborers are genuinely appreciated, supported, and recognized for their dedication, fostering encouragement for both the servant and the observing community.